Academy of Fine Arts Vienna·Humanities and Cultural Studies
Doctor of Philosophy (Dr. phil.)
The Doctor of Philosophy (Dr. phil.) program at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills for independent academic work in the field of humanities and cultural studies. It focuses on theoretical frameworks and experimental research methods that deepen understanding of art history and cultural contexts. The curriculum encourages students to engage critically with their subjects and provide significant contributions to scholarly discourse.
Students engage in advanced research methodologies, focusing on historical and theoretical perspectives within humanities and cultural studies. The program allows for independent study of specific themes related to the candidates' dissertations.
The program is organized over six semesters, culminating in a public defense of a dissertation which must meet international scholarly standards. Candidates also participate in seminars and submit a dissertation proposal within the first year.
Graduates gain advanced competencies in research, critical thinking, and academic writing. They are prepared for roles in academia, cultural institutions, and research.
Periods can differ for EU/EEA and non-EU applicants. Always confirm on the official site before applying.
Winter 2023
No tuition
EU/EEA students, within the standard study period (plus the ~€25 ÖH student union fee per semester).
€727 / semester
Non-EU / third-country rate. Always confirm on the official site.
€ 25,20 ÖH-Beitrag plus gegebenenfalls anfallende Studiengebühren im Umfang von € 363,36 bzw. € 726,72
Third-country (non-EU/EEA) applicants generally need to have their prior qualifications legalised and translated for the admission application. Exact rules depend on the country that issued each document — always confirm with the university's admissions office.
Program-specific items — a CV, letter of motivation, an entrance exam (e.g. GMAT, GRE, SAT) or a portfolio — vary by degree. Check this program's requirements above and its official page.
The level of legalisation your certificates need depends on your country of origin:
Apostille
If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an Apostille from the competent authority of the issuing country is sufficient.
No legalisation
A small number of countries have a bilateral agreement with Austria and need no further legalisation.
Full diplomatic legalisation
For all other countries: the full chain — pre-certification by the issuing country's authorities (e.g. Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs), then legalisation by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate).
Translations are usually done after legalisation. Check the required order with the issuing authorities and the Austrian representation.
After admission: proof of sufficient funds, health insurance and the student residence permit are part of the visa process — not university admission. We cover those in the guides.
Founded in 1692, the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna is one of Europe's oldest art academies, focused on fine arts, scenography, conservation, and architecture.
Visit university site€350–€650 / month (dorm room)
1040 WienSingle rooms, double roomsAkademikerhilfe
Mayerhofgasse 3, 1040 WienSingle & shared roomsAkademikerhilfe
1080 WienSingle rooms, double roomsHome4students